Kappy King and the Puppy Kaper by Amy Lillard is the first book in An Amish Mystery series. Kathryn “Kappy” King lives alone making kapps
for the women of her community in Blue Sky, Pennsylvania. Kappy arrives home from shopping to find her
front door painted blue which implies an available maidel lives here. Kappy knows instantly that Jimmy Peachey, next
door neighbor’s son with Downs syndrome, painted her door and heads over to talk
with him. She finds Jimmy in the barn crying
with his mother, Ruth dead on the floor.
When the police arrive, they arrest Jimmy. Detective Jones states that Jimmy confessed
to the crime. Edith “Edie” Peachey, Jimmy’s
shunned sister, returns to town determined to find her mother’s killer and get
Jimmy released from jail. Since the
Amish will not speak with Edie, she asks Kappy to assist her. The pair start questioning the neighbors and
then Ruth’s business acquaintances (dog breeder) hoping for clues that will
lead them to the killer. Then the Mifflin County Animal Welfare arrives thanks
to an anonymous complaint that they are running a puppy mill on the
property. The next day animal rights activists
arrive. This is just the beginning of a
series of incidents. Who is doing this
to them and why? Kappy and Edie need to work quickly before
things turn deadly.

I enjoy reading Amy Lillard’s
Amish novels and was eager to read her new Amish mystery. However, Kappy King and the Puppy Kaper missed
the mark. I found the book easy to read
and it had a nice flow. The characters,
though, lacked development. In a way,
Kappy and Edie reminded me of Laverne and Shirley with their antics (but not as
humorous). It is mentioned that Kappy is
eccentric, but I could not figure out why (except her how she conducted her
business). Edie was the unconventional
one especially with her manner of dress.
I am thankful that the zany is mild and not over-the-top. Identifying the killer and the person behind
the destructive incidents is child’s play.
The book needed more substance and a feeling of community. Readers are
given few details on the town. We are
told about Hiram Lapp who owns Sundries and Sweets. Kappy was engaged to Hiram, but she recently
broke it off with him (and I can see why with his dominating ways). Kappy feels she is unworthy of Hiram. Hiram talks several times to Kappy to get her
to reconsider her decision as well as trying to deter her involvement in the investigation. There was also some flirting between
Detective Jones and Edie. Jimmy was a
sweetie along with the cute puppies (and the other adorable animals). There is a preview of Kappy King and thePickle Kaper at the end of the book which will be published on June 26, 2018. Readers
who are looking for a light, amusing cozy mystery should take check out Kappy King and the Puppy Kaper.

Thank you for taking time out of your day to read my latest review. May each of you have a pleasant and safe New Year holiday. I will return on January 2 with my thoughts on Another One Bites the Crust by Ellie Alexander. Take care and Happy Reading!KrisThe Avid Reader

Saturday, December 30, 2017

Thank you for stopping by today. A Song Unheard by Roseanna M. White will be published on January 2. It is the second book in Shadows Over England series. Willa Forsythe is tasked with getting a cypher key from Lukas De Wilde, a Belgium violinist and refugee. Lukas is worried about his mother and sister who are still in Belgium. He wants to find a way to get them out of the country and to safety. But German officials wants the work done by Lukas' father and they believe he has the answers they need.

Better Dead by Pamela Kopfler is
the first A B&B Spirits Mystery.
Holly Davis owns Holly Grove Plantation in Delta Ridge, Louisiana which she
turned into a bed and breakfast three years prior. Holly’s husband, Burl passed away three
months ago just before he was served with divorce papers for his cheating ways
(and so much more). Holly is celebrating
the end of her mourning with champagne and raises a toast to Burl. The next thing she knows he is there before
her (then chaos ensues). The next morning
Holly wakes up on the floor with white powder all around her (long story) and
the Deltas are peering at her through the window. Burl was not a drunken
hallucination and he cannot move on until Holly helps with his unfinished
business. He only has until midnight on
Halloween to make things right or he will be stuck at Holly Grove forever (Holly’s
worst nightmare). Holly is the only
person who can see and hear Burl. Before
his death, Burl was involved in smuggling drugs through Holly Grove and he believes
busting up the ring is his unfinished business. Holly agrees to help Burl in exchange for him
haunting the house during the Haunted Pilgrimage Tour of Homes. Holly needs to turn a profit, or she is in
danger of losing Holly Grove (thanks to Burl).
Then Holly’s old high school flame, Jake McCann returns to town and wishes
to stay at Holly Grove. Unknown to Holly,
Jake is an ICE agent trying to stop the drugs being smuggled through the
plantation. He is as handsome as ever
and Holly is still attracted to him.
However, it is hard to flirt with your deceased husband in the room. Can Holly discover who is behind the drug
smuggling and put a stop to it? Why has
Jake returned to town? Watch Holly
juggle her duties at the B&B along with Burl, Jake, the Deltas, and a
housekeeper who wants the ghost out of the house.

Better Dead is a Southern cozy
mystery with paranormal elements. The
story is told from Holly and Jake’s POV. I prefer stories that are written from one
viewpoint (preferably third person). It
allows readers to stay immersed in the story and not be distracted by the
changing voice. Better Dead is a
humorous story with one zany antic after another throughout the whole
book. While I do not enjoy reading these
type of stories, many other readers find them delightful. I prefer intelligent, strong female
characters. I was never drawn into
Better Dead. I read it, but just found
it unbelievable. Some examples are: The Deltas believing fire hydrant foam dust
to be cocaine and that Holly has a drug issue (the gossip quickly spread
throughout the whole town); the gold sex toy that Holly breaks and then needs
fixed (because she is snooping through her guests luggage); the housekeeper who
brings in a priest and a medium to get rid of the ghost; housekeeper and Holly wearing garlic to keep
the ghost at bay; Holly runs a B&B, but she cannot cook (or reheat) without
destroying food (which happens in the book). I was curious why the B&B served
dinner? Especially since the housekeeper
cooks the food in advance (she does not stay until dinner) and then Holly has
to reheat it (would you pay for this service).
Like I mentioned before, many people will find these things hilarious (I
am just not one of them). There was too
much of it along with the bickering between Holly and Burl (tiresome and repetitive)
and Holly ogling Jake (and thinking about him).
I believe the author was trying for screwball comedy type humor (but did
not pull it off). The mystery is in
there among all the zaniness. The
culprit can be identified before the reveal (do not let the crazy distract you).
Holly gets herself into one dangerous
situation after another since she refuses to listen to anyone (which gets her
into trouble and then she needs rescuing).
The characters lacked development and Burl was annoying. Better Dead was too long (I did not think the
book would ever end). Better Dead was
not my cup of tea. Downright Dead is the next book in the series and will be released on September 25, 2018.

Please remember that my review is just my personal thoughts regarding the book. While a book may not appeal to me, other readers will find it wonderful. That is the beauty of books. There is something for everyone! I will return tomorrow on the last day of 2017 with my review of Kappy King and the Puppy Kaper by Amy Lillard. Have an enchanting day. Take care and Happy Reading!

Friday, December 29, 2017

Salutations! Out of the Ashes by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse comes out on January 2. It is the second book The Heart of Alaska series, but it can be read alone. Jean-Michel Langelier and Katherine Demarchis were broken apart by her father five years prior. They have both had difficult times since that day. But now they have an opportunity to be together again. But are they strong enough in body and spirit to take advantage of it?

Crust No One by Winnie Archer is
the second installment in A Bread Shop Mystery series. Ivy Culpepper has found solace at Yeast of
Eden run by her friend and mentor Olaya Solis in Santa Sofia, California. The Blackbird Ladies (as Ivy as dubbed them) come
into the shop to partake in the delicious goodies and chat (gossip). Miguel Baptista calls to hire Ivy (professional
photographer) to do photographs for his menus, advertising, and web site for Baptista’s
(the restaurant he is remodeling). Ivy
had hoped that the spark between them would flare up again, but there is
something holding Miguel back. The Blackbird
Ladies are worried when Mustache Hank, the local produce man, disappears. He has missed his deliveries, and no one has
seen him recently. Miguel is also concerned
about Hank who provides produce for his restaurant and has never missed a delivery. Ivy (who only met the man once) and Miguel
team up look for Hank Rivera. They get
assistance from the loquacious Blackbird Ladies who know all the local
gossip. Hank had recently gone through a
divorce from his high school sweetheart and he was having financial
difficulties. Ivy and Olaya are also preparing
for the Winter Wonderland Festival where they will have a booth. What happened to Hank? Will romance bloom between Ivy and
Miguel?

Crust No One is the second book
in A Bread Shop Mystery series. It can
be read as a standalone since the author provides the needed background
information and a summary of events from the first book are included. The cozy elements are the dominant part of
the book. Ivy settling into her new
home, making bread, chatting, enjoying Winter Wonderland Festival, the various
Blackbird Ladies, walking, eating, etc.
The mystery is different with a missing person (instead of Ivy stumbling
over a dead body). It is a medium level
mystery and readers might not figure out all the elements (I do not want to say
too much and give anything away). The issues
between Miguel and Ivy were not enjoyable (I wanted to lock them in a room and
tell them to talk it out). They broke up
after high school and have yet to discuss the why. At the end of the book, the topic is finally
addressed (but you will have guessed what happened long before then). I found the pace to be a little slow for my
liking and my attention was not held by this story. The investigation consists of talking to
people. These talks can provide
pertinent information and vital clues. The
story could have used some action and a faster pace. Ivy’s thinking/speculation and repetition of
details (how many times do I need to be told Mrs. Branford’s age) along with
bread making fill the book. I thought it
was odd that Ivy became so invested in looking for a man she only met (briefly)
once. Something else that stood out to
me was when Miguel contacted Ivy for her photography services, she did not
contact him back immediately. She waits
two days because she will only do things on her terms (with regard to Miguel). Did she forget this is a business transaction
and not personal? I preferred Kneaded to Death to Crust No One (what captivated in the first book was missing in this one). Crust No One
could have used a few tweaks.

I appreciate you visiting today and reading my review. I will return tomorrow to discuss Better Dead by Pamela Kopfler. It is the first story in A B&B Spirits Mystery series. May you have a very special day. Take care and Happy Reading!KrisThe Avid Reader

Thursday, December 28, 2017

Greetings! The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz will be released on January 2. Lady Elizabeth "Liberty" Lawson is preparing for her marriage to Miles Cullen Roth. The night before the wedding, her life is forever changed. Liberty must adapt to her new world and pick a side. Her father is a Tory and loyal to the King. Williamsburg has become a Patriot town and a revolution is brewing. The only person to aid Liberty is Noble Rynallt, a Patriot. What choice will Liberty make?

Stowed Away by Barbara Ross is
the sixth book in A Maine Clambake Mystery series. Julia Snowden is getting ready for another tourist
season in Busman’s Harbor, Maine. Julia and
her family own the Snowden Family Clambake Company. They host authentic Maine clambakes on Morrow
Island. Windsholme, the old mansion on
Morrow Island, suffered severe fire damage and Quentin Tupper is bringing an
architect to provide an evaluation on the house. Wyatt Jane, the architect, went to prep school
with Julia (Julia is less than pleased to see her). Wyatt arrived on the reclusive Geoffrey Bower’s
yacht, Garbo. She invites them to dinner
that night to see some of her work and they are surprised to see their friend, Genevieve
Pelletier who is the chef for the yacht.
The next evening, Julia gets frantic call from Wyatt. Julia races over and Geoffrey Bower is dead
in the dining room with a strange grimace on his face. Julia had noticed a diamond ring on the table
which disappears before the police arrive on the scene. There was something about the diamond that
looked familiar to Julia. Suspicion
falls onto Wyatt and Quentin asks Julia to investigate the murder. Julia dives into her investigation and begins
by chatting with the crew. She wants to
see if any of them had a motive to kill Mr. Bower. But then Geoffrey’s attorney arrives with
news that surprises them all and changes the focus of the investigation. Who is the killer? Will they find the culprit before the crew
departs town?

Stowed Away is nicely written and
has a good pace. While Stowed Away is
the sixth book in the series, it can be read alone. All the necessary details are included in the
books. There are many cozy elements in the
book. Getting the business ready for the
season, Genevieve and her romance with Sgt. Tom Flynn, why Julia dislikes
Wyatt, Page’s friend, Page’s friend Vanessa Bailey with green eyes just like
Chris’, Julia’s romance with Chris Durand, whether to renovate or tear down
Windsholme, and the upcoming Family Day clambake (for friends, employees, and family). The mystery is interesting, and many readers
will not solve it before the reveal. Can
it be solved? Yes. The clues are there
to aid readers in solving the crime. There is a delightful twist that will
surprise you (unless you have been paying close attention). This is my favorite book in A Maine Clambake Mystery series. I especially appreciated
the complex mystery (great details and active sleuthing) and that the romance between Chris and Julia was in the
background. Ms. Ross has created a
lovely community of people in A Maine Clambake Mystery series. The main
characters are smart, caring and friendly (instead of silly, bumbling
fools). Fans of A Maine Clambake Mystery series will be delighted with Stowed Away.

Thank you for visiting today. 2017 is quickly winding down. I will be featuring Crust No One by Winnie Archer next time. May you have a happy day. Take care and Happy Reading!

Wednesday, December 27, 2017

Welcome! Another One Bites the Crust by Ellie Alexander will be published on January 2. It is the seventh book in A Bakeshop Mystery series. The actor playing Antony in Antony and Cleopatra is murdered and Lance is the prime suspect. Jules needs to prove his innocence and find the killer. Jules is also wondering about the key that Carlos gave her. What did it mean? What does the key open?

A Courtship on Huckleberry Hill by Jennifer Beckstrand is the eighth installment in The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series. Anna and Felty
Helmuth lives in Bonduel, Wisconsin on Huckleberry Hill. Anna has had great success in finding the
perfect mates for her grandchildren. She
has found the perfect match for her granddaughter, Elsie Stutzman. Now she just needs to find a way to get them
together. Elsie has signed on as the
local schoolteacher. Elsie is known for
being outspoken (which has gotten her into trouble in the recent past) along
with being determined and stubborn (feisty).
She loves teaching, but Elsie has been having trouble with fourteen-year-old
Wally Sensenig. Wally only has one full
leg and is missing fingers on one hand (threshing accident), but Elsie will not
let Wally use that as an excuse for not working up to his full potential. Wally has been using his disability to
manipulate people and to get what he wants.
But he has finally met his match in Elsie Stutzman. Elsie is also trying to convince her
grandmother to wait on matching her up with an eligible bachelor. Elsie’s last relationship did not end well,
and she is not ready to try again.

Sam Sensenig, Wally’s older
brother, takes care of the family farm, his ill mother and his siblings. He feels guilty for Wally’s accident and
gives into to Wally’s “requests” (had electricity installed in Wally’s bedroom,
purchased him an Xbox along with games, and does not require him to do
chores). Wally tells Sam that the
teacher is picking on him. A riled Sam
goes to the school to confront Elsie about picking on his disabled
brother. Elsie tries to explain to Sam
what she wishes to accomplish with Wally, but she meets with resistance. It will take time for Sam to realize that
Elsie only wants what is best for Wally.
Sam is also dealing with Anna Felty and her numerous attempts to get him
to meet her granddaughter, Elizabeth.
She keeps sending him letters with potholders enclosed. If the young lady needs her grandmother to
match her up, Sam is not sure he wants to meet her, nor does he have the
time. Can Elsie get Sam to see the error
of his ways? Will Elsie be able to change
Wally and his outlook? Can Anna succeed
in bringing these two stubborn individuals together?

I found A Courtship on Huckleberry Hill to be well-written, engaging and it had a good pace (which
makes for a book that is enjoyable to read).
Anna and Felty Helmuth are such delightful characters. They are in their 80s, and Anna has no qualms
meddling in her grandchildren’s lives.
Anna is a quirky woman who wears sweaters that are not approved by the
Ordung, is a knitting machine, and cooks the worst food (Felty finds it
delicious, but his taste buds are not to be trusted). Elsie is a strong, determined, persistent yet
compassionate and kind woman. These qualities
make her an excellent teacher. She wants
what is best for her students. I ended
up liking Sam in the end, but he was irksome (I did not think he would ever see
reason). I could not believe how
oblivious he was to Rose Mast (neighbor who was in love with him). His cluelessness to the situation went on a
little too long for my liking. It was
cute and humorous how Anna kept trying to match up Sam and Elsie without
success. The scenes did have me
chuckling. A Courtship on Huckleberry Hill can be read as a standalone. I do,
though, recommend the other novels in The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series (each one is unique and a pleasure to read). Anna is determined to find matches for all
her grandchildren whether they want it or not.
In A Courtship on Huckleberry Hill, you will find yourself cheering for
Elsie as she sets out to change Wally and Sam.
I am eager to read Home on Huckleberry Hill (June 26, 2018) which is the next novel in
The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series.

I appreciate you visiting today and reading my review. I will return tomorrow with my thoughts on Stowed Away by Barbara Ross. I hope that you have a beautiful day. Take care and Happy Reading!

Murder with Lemon Tea Cakes by Karen Rose Smith is the first book in A Daisy’s Tea Garden Mystery series. Daisy Swanson co-owns Daisy’s Tea Garden
(housed in a beautiful old Victorian) with her aunt, Iris Albright in Willow
Creek, Pennsylvania. Iris has been
dating Harvey Fisk who is working to obtain a divorce from his wife,
Monica. At a party honoring the 25th
anniversary of Harvey’s store, Men’s Trends at Daisy’s Tea Garden, Monica
storms in and accuses Harvey of hiding assets (talk about a party pooper). Iris leaves to meet Harvey for a date and
Daisy hears a scream. Harvey is dead in
their herb garden from blunt force trauma and one of their statues is
missing. Detective Rappaport is on the
case, and he has decided Iris is the culprit.
Daisy with the help of former detective, Jonas Groft query the various
suspects. It turns out that Harvey had
recently changed his will which angered his children. Could one of them have murdered Harvey? Daisy is worried about her youngest daughter,
Jazzi. She has been acting out lately,
and Daisy discovers that Jazzi wants to locate her biological mother. Daisy knows she needs to support Jazzi’s decision
and help her in any way she can. Business
is booming at the tea garden courtesy of Harvey’s murder and Daisy brings on
additional staff. Daisy follows the
clues in the hopes of catching the real killer and removing Aunt Iris from the
suspect list. Who murdered Harvey?

Murder with Lemon Tea Cakes is
nicely written and has a good pace. The
author sets the stage in this book for the series. She establishes the characters, Daisy’s Tea
Garden, and the town. I found the
characters to be congenial and relatable (except for Detective Rappaport). Daisy is a smart, strong and caring woman who
loves her family and is striving to make a success of her new business. She is a widow with two daughters (one
biological and one adopted). Thanks to
Karen Rose Smith’s description, I can picture Daisy’s Tea Garden in my
head. She provides sumptuous
descriptions of the tea and food served at the tea garden (recipes at the end
of the book). I was not a fan of
cantankerous Detective Rappaport, but their does need to be one disagreeable character
(someone who readers love to hate). He
was like a dog with a bone. He gets a
hold of an idea and does not let go. The
mystery was appealing with several suspects and misdirection. The investigation mostly consisted of
questioning (I wish there had been more action). The murder was not the prominent part of the
story. The mystery can be solved before
the reveal if pay careful attention to the clues. More time is devoted to the tea garden,
Daisy’s family, food descriptions, tea, talking, cats and flirting. There are two possible romantic partners for
Daisy. I am sincerely hoping that this
will not result in a love triangle in future books in the series. Murder with Lemon Tea Cakes is a lovely cozy
mystery, and I will be reading the next book in A Daisy’s Tea Garden Mystery series. Fans of Karen Rose Smith and A
Caprice De Luca Mystery series will be entertained by Murder with Lemon TeaCakes. The next book in A Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery series is Murder with Cinnamon Scones which will be published on May 29, 2018.

Saturday, December 23, 2017

Christmas is almost upon us! Are you ready? I am working frantically to get everything completed in time. Wish me luck!

The House on Foster Hill by Jaime Jo Wrightis a Christian mystery story and the author's debut novel.
Ivy Thorpe lives with her father in Oakwood, Wisconsin. In March of 1906, a body has been found in
the hollowed tree on Foster Hill near Foster Hill House. Who is the young woman and why was she
killed? Ivy wants to find out the
identity of the woman along with who harmed her. However, the one person who can assist her is
also the individual who left her when she needed him the most. Then it is discovered that the victim had
recently given birth. Ivy is determined
to get justice for the woman and locate the missing child.

Kaine Prescott has decided to
relocate from San Diego to Oakwood, Wisconsin.
She lost her husband, Danny two years prior and Kaine is certain his
death was no accident. The police,
though, will not investigate further nor they believe that Kaine has a
stalker. Kaine bought Foster Hill House
(unseen and without an inspection) in her grandfather’s hometown. When Kaine starts work on the home, she finds
clues to the century old mystery. Will
Kaine be able to discover what happened to the young woman who died in 1906?

The House on Foster Hillsplits
time between 1906 and the present. I
felt the author did the story a disservice by splitting the focus. The story felt muddled. The first two chapters of the novel felt
creepy and mysterious. However, it soon
fizzled into humdrum (especially the contemporary sections). I found Ivy more interesting than Kaine. The
romance (for both characters) was more prominent than the mystery. The only reason for the mystery was for the
two women to find love. The author tried
to put too much into one book (needed editing and a major rewrite). I found the story slow-paced (paint dries
faster) and lacking in flow. Ivy kept a
journal in which she wrote stories about the people who died (made up
stories). She was determined to solve
the murder and kept running off which put her in danger multiple times
(reckless). Kaine buys a house that
needs massive renovations in a town she has never visited. She has no DIY skills or tools. She overreacts each incident. There was a repetition of information, and I
never felt the suspense (or tension).
The mystery is one that plays out (another disappointment) with the
details being revealed in the final 10%. The ending felt incomplete. I
found The House on Foster Hillto be a tedious book to read (felt like I was
slogging through a mud pit). The House on Foster Hill is available on Kindle Unlimited (a program through Amazon.com).Thank you for taking the time out of your day to read my latest review. I will return on December 26 with my evaluation of Murder with Lemon Tea Cakes by Karen Rose Smith. I hope that each of you have a very Merry Christmas. Take care and Happy Reading!KrisThe Avid Reader

Friday, December 22, 2017

In This Moment by Karen Kingsbury
is part of The Baxter Family series.Wendell Quinn is the principal of Hamilton High School and he is tired
of what is happening in his school (drugs, violence, high teen pregnancy).Wendell is going to start a controversial
after school program that could cost him his job.Wendell is a Christian and has decided to
start a voluntary after-school Bible study and prayer group.After one year, Wendell has seen many changes
to his school.Test scores are up, teen
pregnancies and violence are down along with violence and drug use.The biggest change is in Cami Nelson.She is no longer angry, she believes in God
and has discovered a love of writing. Wendell tells the parents about the
program and Andy Nelson, Cami’s father, is not pleased.He contacts the local newspaper and files a
lawsuit against Wendell.Wendell needs
to make a choice.Stand up for what he
believes in (what is best for his students) and fight the lawsuit or cave into
pressure and disband the group.Wendell
decides to fight and hires Luke Baxter to defend him. Can Wendell win the
lawsuit, or will he lose everything?

In This Moment has some nice
writing and a decent pace.I did not
realize In This Moment was part of such a large series (twenty seven books in the series) until I opened the
book.I had trouble reading the sections
about Luke Baxter and his extended family.There are numerous family members and I was not aware of their various
relationships and backstories (it was confusing).The
Baxter family is not heavily featured in this book (fair warning to fans of the
series). You can find the complete list of the books in the series here. I found Wendell Quinn
courageous for standing up for what he believes in and trying to improve the
lives of others.Wendell trusts that God
will get him through any situation (which He can) and his vocal about his
beliefs.The story, though, is
expected.It follows a predictable path
with an unoriginal ending.The religious
aspect is dominant and comes across as preachy. You can tell where the author stands on the
issues presented in the book.I hope that there are people like Wendell
Quinn out in the world, but I have never meet a person like him (or any of the
people in the book).The characters felt
forced (contrived, fake) and many situations seemed unrealistic.I am giving In This Moment 3 out of 5 stars.

If you find my reviews helpful, please consider joining my blog (at right). You can join via Google or email. I will be sharing my evaluation of The House on Foster Hill by Jaime Jo Wright next time. I hope that you have a beautiful day. Take care and Happy Reading!

Dead of Winter by Wendy Corsi Staubis the third book in A Lily Dale Mystery series.The night before Bella Jordan heard a scream
out on the lake and the next morning she discovers a dead body wrapped in a
tarp on the shore.Then Max’s friend,
Jiffy Arden (who manages to lose his belonging on a routine basis) disappears
one day during snowstorm.To top it off,
Misty Starr (Jiffy’s mom) disappears.What is going on in Lily Dale?Did Jiffy see something the night the body was dropped into the
lake?

Dead of Winteris not a
standalone novel.You need to read the
first two books in the series prior to Dead of Winter.The story is told from multiple POVs which
makes for a confusing story (and frustrating).It switches between Bella, Max, Jiffy, Misty, and the killer.Then there are the multiple townspeople who
all seem to be psychic (but cannot find the missing kid or prevent him from
being kidnapped). The paranormal elements are not believable (come across as
contrived).I felt that Dead of Winter needed
a rewrite and editing.There is a
significant amount of repetition (the same details over and over).The story also jumps around (the multiple POV
thing).Dead of Winterlacks flow and
continuity (and it way too long).The
ending was unfinished.Important details
were left out (like what happened to the four stolen gold rings).The mystery is one that plays out and readers
are not given a chance to solve the murder.I did not enjoy readingDead of Winter(it was blah).This was the lastA Lily Dale Mysteryfor
me. The first two books in the series are Nine Livesand Something Buried, Something Blue.

I appreciate you taking the time to visit today and read my latest review. I will return tomorrow with In This Moment by Karen Kingsbury(part of The Baxter Family series).How much did Santa pay for his sleigh?Nothing--it was on the house!I hope you have a cheerful day. Take care and Happy Reading!KrisThe Avid Reader

Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Good Morrow! Beneath the Summer Sun by Kelly Irvinis the second book in Every Amish Season series. It will be published on January 16.Scone Cold Killer by Lena Gregorywill be available on January 23. It is the first book inAll-Day Breakfast Café Mysteryseries.The Dark Lake by Sarah Baileyis
the first book in A Gemma Woodstock Mystery series.Detective Sergeant Gemma Woodstock lives and
works in Smithson, Australia.Gemma
receives a call regarding the strangulation death of Rosalind Ryan.She was found by a jogger floating in Sonny
Lake with red roses surrounding her body.Gemma went to school with Rosalind and were once friends (as well as
rivals).Rosalind had recently returned
to town to teach drama at Smithson Secondary College.Rosalind was a woman who spoke her mind and
recently put on an adaptation of Romeo and Juliet (she was quite insistent
about it).Gemma starts to dig into
Rosalind’s life.Despite her popularity,
Rosalind was something of an enigma.Why
had Rosalind quit her job in Sydney and returned to Smithson?Gemma is determined to track down the killer
despite the threats to her own life and that of her son’s.Will Gemma find the killer, or will she end
up the next victim?

The Dark Lakehad an extremely
dislikeable main character.You know you
do not like a character when you keep hoping the killer will do her in.Gemma’s personal life was a mess and it
spilled over into her work.She is living
with one man (father of her son) while having an affair with another man.There are numerous sex scenes and it seems to
be all Gemma can think about (it was obsessive).Gemma came across as unstable.I do want to mention that the book does
contain foul language (a pet peeve of mine).I found there to be a lack of action and suspense.The mystery comes across as complex, but the
solution is obvious.The book seemed
long and drawn out (lacking in suspense and action).The same details kept being repeated.The focus of The Dark Lakewas on Gemma and
her messed up life instead of Rosalind’s murder.The book had potential.It just needed a major rewrite and severe
editing. You can get the prologue and first five chapters of The Dark Lakein a free preview (clickhere). I give The Dark Lake 2 out of 5 stars. Thank you for visiting today. What did the gingerbread put on his bed?A cookie sheet! I will return tomorrow. Take care and Happy Reading!

Tuesday, December 19, 2017

Welcome! Christmas is rapidly approaching, and I am nowhere near ready for the holiday. I could use another month or two to prepare!Beneath A Prairie Moon by Kim Vogel Sawyerwill be published on March 20. It is a delightfully entertaining Christian, historical romance novel.

As Bright As Heavenis the latest
novel bySusan Meissnerwhich is set in 1918.Pauline and Thomas Bright along with their family are relocating from
Quakertown to Philadelphia.Thomas has
been offered the opportunity to work with his uncle, Fred Bright and eventually
inherit the Bright Funeral Home.Pauline
is hoping it will provide a better life for their family (three daughters:Evelyn, Willa and Maggie) and, after losing
her six-month-old son, she feels that Death is near her.A few months later, Thomas is drafted and
their neighbor’s son, Jamie Sutcliff goes off to training camp.Then the Spanish Flu arrives with a vengeance
and thousands are dying.Pauline and
Maggie are taking food to those without family to assist them.Maggie is waiting for her mother and hears a
baby crying.She finds the infant’s mother
dead, and Maggie feels the baby is a replacement for the brother she lost.The Bright family takes in the child and
names him Alex.But then Willa becomes
ill with the dreaded flu and Pauline is the next to become infected.Amidst sickness and war there is hope with
little Alex.The Bright family will need
to band together during this difficult time and find a way to move forward.

As Bright As Heavenhas a unique
point-of-view with the Spanish Flu (instead of focusing on the war).The POV switches between Pauline and the
three daughters (told in first person).We get to see life through each of their eyes with each person providing
a unique perspective given their ages (Willa is the youngest at 6).It does, though, disrupt the flow of the book
(pulls you out of the story).The book is nicely written, but I did find the
pace a little slow during the first half of the story.It picks up in the second half as the girls
grow older.I thought it was intriguing
that Evelyn goes to medical school and is working to become a psychiatrist.
This was very unusual for a woman in the 1920s.The characters are well developed, and I appreciated the strong female
characters.The author did a good job at
portraying the time period, the panic and horror of the Spanish Flu epidemic,
how the war affected families, and the changing roles of women in America
during the 1920s.As Bright As Heavenhas love, sorrow, hope, grief, tragedy, fear and so much more.Get swept back in time in Susan Meisner’s
latest novelAs Bright As Heaven.Readers
who enjoy historical dramas will enjoy readingAs Bright As Heaven. As Bright As Heavenwill be available on February 6, 2018.

Ginger Snapped by Gail Oust is
the fifth book in A Spice Shop Mystery series.Piper Prescott owns Spice It Up! In Brandywine Creek.It is April and Melly Prescott, Piper’s
former mother-in-law, is getting married to Judge Cottrell Herman.Love has mellowed Melly and changed the relationship
between the two women.During the
wedding, Sgt. Beau Tucker and John Strickland (the coroner) get phones calls
and rush off.After the wedding, Piper
finds out that a body was found in Sheriff Wyatt McBride’s pond.Piper rushes over to his home worried about
Wyatt (Piper is attracted to him).It
turns out that local realtor, Shirley Randolph is the victim.Since Wyatt had been seen with Shirley
recently, he is a prime suspect.Wyatt
is suspended, and Beau Tucker is made interim sheriff.To clear Wyatt’s name and get him reinstated
as sheriff, Piper along with Reba Mae and Wyatt explore Shirley’s life to see
who could have wished her harm.Piper
realizes she is close to the truth when someone runs her off the road one night
and then breaks into her home.What was
the killer looking for in her home?The
culprit is setting up Wyatt to take the fall, and Piper is not going to let it
happen.

Ginger Snapped is a light,
humorous cozy mystery.I found it nicely
written with a steady pace that made it easy to read.Gail Oust shows what life is like in a small,
Southern town where everyone knows your business, gossip abounds, nepotism is
alive and thriving, and the people are friendly (and very nosy).The jealousy, flirting and attraction between
Wyatt and Piper was prevalent throughout Ginger Snapped.While Ginger Snapped is the fifth book in A Spice Shop Mystery series, it can be read alone.The author provides the necessary background on Piper, the spice shop,
the town and secondary characters.We
get to experience Piper’s life at the shop and with her family. I am not a fan of Piper’s ex-husband and his
new wife.They are annoying and hinder
my enjoyment of the story.I keep hoping
that CJ will become the killer’s next victim (and Amber will get eaten by a
shark). The investigation consists of
Piper asking questions and nosing around the victim’s home with Reba Mae (who
is in love with victim’s closet of clothes and shoes).When the killer’s identity is revealed, most
readers will not be surprised.The why,
though, takes a little longer to figure out.I appreciated the description of the spice shop and the information on
ginger (it was interesting). Readers who enjoy hilarity, hijinks and homicide
in a small Southern town, pick up a copy of Ginger Snapped. The first four books in A Spice Shop Mystery series are Rosemary and Crime, Kill 'Em with Cayenne, Cinnamon Toasted and Curried Away.I hope you found my review helpful. I will be showcasing As Bright As Heaven by Susan Meissner tomorrow. Why are Christmas trees like bad knitters?They both drop their needles! I hope that you have a jolly day. Take care and Happy Reading!KrisThe Avid Reader

Review Policy

If you would like me to read and review your book, please contact me at Doodlesink@hotmail.com. I enjoy mysteries, paranormal, Christian fiction, and contemporary books. My reviews will be honest and are not influenced by receiving a book for free.